Stagehand 

Position Summary

Reporting to the Theatre Business Operations Coordinator, the Stagehand provides technical support to internal and external clients by operating and delivering production services, including lighting, audio, video, rigging, and staging elements. The position ensures safe, efficient, and professional technical operations for events and performances in cultural facilities and event spaces with a primary focus on the events taking place at the Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Performs hands-on technical stage work, including operating lighting, audio, video, special effects, staging, and advanced theatrical equipment, as well as assisting with load-in and load-out for theatre bookings, City-led events, rentals, and performances (indoors and outdoors).
• Reviews supervisor instructions and client requests for each production, ensuring technical requirements are fully understood and executed.
• Participates in and supports the technical layout and design of staging elements using appropriate event production techniques.
• Provides technical services, advice, and expertise to internal and external clients regarding all aspects of event production.
• Ensures client satisfaction with the technical event production aspects of their event.
• Coordinates with other stagehands to review production requirements and administer tasks as needed.
• Configures, operates, maintains, and troubleshoots all production equipment and rentals within the Cultural Services section.
• Assists with cleaning stage and rehearsal hall areas following events, and performs basic equipment and facility maintenance.
• Contributes to production reports by documenting technical event production work, equipment usage, and specific responsibilities for each production.
• Supports emergency procedures, including assisting with evacuations, making announcements for audiences, performers, and crew in the event of a fire alarm or other emergencies.
• Unlocks and secures various parts of the facility as instructed.
• Conducts backstage inspections using enterprise systems (e.g., Maximo) to ensure maintenance standards are met, deficiencies are addressed, and corrective actions are taken.
• Ensures all work is performed in compliance with applicable legislation (OHSA, Fire Code, Ontario Building Code, ESA, CSA, Technical Standards and Safety Act, Human Rights Act), City policies, and collective agreements.
• Performs operational and facility support duties, including cleaning stage areas, moving furniture, setting up and taking down event equipment (e.g., tables, chairs, tents), and general custodial tasks as required.
• Works a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends and statutory holidays.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

• 2-year Theatre Arts – Technical Production Diploma with minimum 1 year related and relevant experience.
• Satisfactory Police Vulnerable Sector Check upon hire.
• CPR and Standard First Aid certified.

Required Skills/Knowledge

• Minimum of 1 year experience in the culture and entertainment sector, working with diverse events such as theatre, live music, corporate presentations, and other performances.
• Experience operating in a variety of venues and event spaces, including performing arts centres and outdoor spaces.
• Expertise in technical event production, including sound, lighting, rigging, video, props, carpentry, and stage management.
• Knowledge of professional sound and lighting systems, including digital audio mixing consoles, and advanced programming and operation of lighting consoles with LED and automated fixtures.
• Knowledge of rigging techniques and fly systems; certified experience in working at heights, elevated work platforms, scissor lifts, and rigging considered an asset.
• Experience assisting with the assembly, dismantling, and safe operation of mobile stages.
• Knowledge and experience in troubleshooting, maintaining, and repairing technical event production equipment.
• Strong organizational, customer service, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure while delivering high-quality technical event production services.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint, and familiarity with scheduling software.
• Active participation in required staff training sessions and meetings.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs and working at heights using ladders, catwalks, and lifts.
• Knowledge of relevant legislation and standards, including Occupational Health and Safety Act, Ontario Building Code, Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), and other employment, labour, and health and safety regulations.
• Ability to perform work outside of normal business hours, providing onsite support before, during, and after events.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, statutory holidays, as operational needs require.
• Ability to travel to various locations across the City as required.
• A valid Ontario Class "G" Driver's License and have access to a vehicle for use on corporate business (mileage compensated). Proof of vehicle insurance required upon hire.

Leadership Competencies